news and current affairs.
Inkosi Ngcobo cancels MK Party visit to coronation
Inkosi MP Ngcobo of the Amanyuswa Traditional Authority has canceled a planned special visit by the uMkhonto weSizwe Party to his coronation event. In a formal letter, the traditional leader stated that his coronation should not be used as a platform for any political campaign. He requested the party, led by Inkosi Chiliza, to cancel its intended visit after a promotional flyer for the event was circulated. The leader’s decision underscores a principle of maintaining the sanctity of traditional ceremonies by keeping them separate from political activities. This incident highlights ongoing sensitivities regarding the relationship between cultural institutions and political parties in KwaZulu-Natal. The Amanyuswa Traditional Authority...
Khumalo returns to Crime Intelligence amid charges
Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo has resumed his command of the South African Police Service's Crime Intelligence division while confronting active fraud and corruption charges. At least four other senior officers charged alongside him are also returning to their positions. Their reinstatement was communicated to provincial Crime Intelligence leaders during a high-level meeting. The group had been cleared through internal disciplinary processes, though their criminal case remains before the courts. This decision, intended to bring stability to the unit, has prompted concerns about accountability. The officers are still subject to bail conditions that currently prohibit them from entering Crime Intelligence premises. National Police...
Shebeshxt was released on bail after the road rage shooting
The Lebowakgomo Magistrate’s Court granted popular Limpopo rapper Shebeshxt, whose real name is Lehlogonolo Katlego Chauke, a release on 5,000 rand bail. This follows his arrest for attempted murder in a road rage incident where he allegedly shot at another motorist and his vehicle. His trial is scheduled for February at the Lebowakgomo Regional Court. This attempted murder charge adds to several other ongoing criminal cases against the artist. These include additional counts of attempted murder, assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and robbery with aggravating circumstances. Public reaction to his release has been divided. While some supporters expressed relief, others have voiced concerns regarding his repeated...
ANCYL leadership suspends itself in chaotic showdown
A deepening power struggle within the African National Congress Youth League has resulted in its president, Collen Malatji, and its secretary-general, Mntuwoxolo Ngudle, suspending each other from their positions. This mutual suspension follows a contentious national executive committee meeting where Malatji allegedly excluded Ngudle and Treasurer-General Zwelo Masilela. The conflict, centered on preparations for the league’s upcoming 27th National Congress in Polokwane, involves accusations of constitutional breaches and unauthorized handling of critical conference materials. The internal crisis includes disputes over conference packages containing security features and conflicting calls for urgent leadership meetings. These divisions...
Pandor’s US visa revoked amid diplomatic tensions
The United States has revoked the visitor visa of Naledi Pandor, the former South African International Relations Minister and current chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Pandor confirmed she received an email notification from the US Consulate providing no explanation for the decision, which occurred shortly after a recent trip. The unexpected action has generated speculation that it relates to diplomatic tensions, particularly South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, a move the US government strongly opposes. Pandor expressed confusion over the revocation, noting that US law does not require authorities to furnish a reason. She recently traveled to the US under that visa to deliver a keynote...
Riveiro expresses interest in Bafana Bafana role after Broos
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has expressed his interest in leading the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, following Hugo Broos's eventual departure. The Spanish coach stated he would accept the role, citing his extensive knowledge of local players and a commitment to youth development. He emphasized his full support for the incumbent coach, Hugo Broos, ahead of upcoming tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Riveiro has built a strong reputation in the Premier Soccer League since his arrival, guiding Pirates to multiple domestic cup victories. His familiarity with several current national team players from his club duties is seen as a potential advantage. These comments position him as a...
Thidiela threatens PSL with FIFA action over bias
Black Leopards FC chairman David Thidiela has threatened to escalate his grievances with the Premier Soccer League to FIFA. He has submitted a formal complaint to Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie, alleging that PSL leadership, including acting CEO Mato Madlala and chairman Irvin Khoza, holds conflicting interests that compromise league fairness. Thidiela contends the league should be administered by neutral officials unaffiliated with any club. Should the minister and the Confederation of African Football fail to provide a satisfactory resolution, Thidiela intends to petition the global football body. His actions highlight ongoing concerns about governance and equity within South African football, particularly from smaller clubs. This...
Eastern Cape boosts rural farming with water and tools
The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture has provided essential water infrastructure and farming resources to rural communities in Nqanqarhu through its Ilima/Letsema Lokulima Programme. Agriculture MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe oversaw the handover of new spring-water schemes in Sigoga and Saqhuthe villages, which established 26 water points serving 205 households. This initiative ends the need for long, hazardous journeys to collect water and supports small-scale irrigation for household gardens. The department also distributed production inputs, including drought-resistant seeds and tools, to 120 local farmers. Community members expressed that this support would significantly help in combating poverty and improving food security. In a...
Nzimande honours Motaung’s legacy in science and service
The Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has honored the late Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung as a pioneering scientist who centered her work on solving practical problems. Speaking at her memorial service, he highlighted her legacy of using research for community upliftment, such as developing the plant-based pain relief ointment La-Africa Soother through her company, Global Health Biotech. Professor Motaung, who was the first black woman in South Africa to earn a PhD in Biomedical Technology, was also celebrated for her mentorship and for championing indigenous knowledge systems. Nzimande urged the scientific community to follow her example by conducting research that directly addresses...
Top